Visitor Info

Surrounded by water on three sides and nestled alongside the Coast Mountain Range, Vancouver is the largest city in the province of British Columbia with over half a million residents and one of the mildest climates in Canada. Home to spectacular natural scenery and a bustling metropolitan core, Vancouver was host to the Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. Find out more at Tourism Richmond and Tourism Vancouver.

Accommodation

The Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel in Richmond is the official hotel of the 2016 Canada Cup and has been our partner for several other tournaments, including the 2010 World Wheelchair Rugby Championships. Visit their website for more information.

Bug spray, but only if you're heading out of the city. Biting insects are not common to central Vancouver.

Sunhat, sunscreen

Evenings and even daytimes can still be chilly; a jacket or shawl is a good idea.

Vancouver in June Perks:

Warmer weather means visitors can enjoy more of Vancouver's great outdoor offerings, such as enjoying one of the city's many outside patios.

June to October months get less rain.

June days get 16 hours of daylight.

Currency

Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CDN) and it is rare for any establishment in Richmond to accept other currency (though occasionally restaurants or merchants will accept US Dollars). While it's possible to use credit cards at most institutions, we recommend that visitors travel with at least some Canadian money.

Banking/Credit Cards

Banks in Canada are usually open between 9.30am and 4.30pm on Mondays through Fridays. Some branches may be open during the weekend, but this should be confirmed with the individual branch. Many debit cards from outside of Canada will work at a local ATM, however it is best to check with your individual bank regarding charges and commissions. Canadian debit cards cannot be used for online or telephone purchases; for these a credit card is necessary. Visa, Mastercard and American Express are the most commonly accepted credit cards.

Electricity Voltage

The electric voltage in Canada is similar to that of the United States: 120 V and 60 Hz. Electric outlets in Canada accept two types of plugs: a flat blade attachment plug (two flat blades) or a plug with two flat blades and a round grounding pin. More info.

Emergency Services

The emergency services telephone number is 911 across Canada and the United States and is free from any phone.

Free healthcare is not provided for non-Canadian visitors and can be costly, so be sure to obtain adequate health and travel insurance for your intended activities before you leave.

Ambulance rides are also not free. There is a charge of approximately $54 per ride, plus 50 cents per kilometre.

Languages

Canada is officially a bilingual country, with English and French being the two official languages. There are, however, many other languages spoken in Canada: some more predominant in certain areas. While English is the language most commonly spoken in British Columbia, many other languages are spoken (and sometimes written) because of the area's cultural diversity. Some examples of commonly spoken languages in Burnaby, Vancouver and BC include: Cantonese, Mandarin, Punjabi, Hindi and Spanish.

Metric Conversions

The metric system, also known as the System International, is the standard measuring used in Canada. One of the main advantages of the metric system is a decimalised system of measurement based on the meter and the gram. Some common conversions are:

Metric

Imperial

Length

1 Centimeter = 0.39 inches

1 Inch = 2.54 cm

1 Meter = 3.28 feet

1 Foot = 30.48 cm

1 Meter = 1.09 yards

1 Yard = 0.91 m

1 Kilometer = 0.62 miles

1 Mile = 1.61 km

Weight

1 Gram = 0.035 ounces

1 Ounce = 28.35 g

1 Kilogram = 2.21 pounds

1 Pound = 0.45 kg

1 Metric ton (1000 kg) = 1.1 US tons or 0.98 UK tons

1 Ton = 0.91 metric tons

Temperature

°C = (°F - 32) ÷ 1.8

°F = (°C x 1.8) + 32

Some common temperature conversions are:
Room temperature = 20 °C or 68°F
Normal body temperature = 37 °C or 98.6°F
A very hot day = 40 °C or 104°F
Boiling point of water = 100 °C or 212°F

Smoking

Richmond has a Non Smoking Bylaw in place. Smoking is not permitted in Public Places such as restaurants, pubs/bars, pool halls and retail establishments. Smoking in these establishments is only permitted in approved outdoor locations.

Taxes

In Canada, tax is not included in the purchase price.

The Canadian Goods and Services tax (GST) is charged at 5%, and is applicable to most goods and services provided in the country. However, Provincial Sales Tax (PST) differs from province to province. In BC, the PST is 7%, and is charged on most retail purchases, with the exception of items such as books, newspapers, magazines and restaurant meals.

Recreation

The Grouse Mountain Skyride offers accessibility on the gondola with 24-hours notice, ask for the sales department. || 604.984.0661

With the BC Parks Disabled Access Pass, people can camp free in provincial parks. || 250.356.8794

Accommodation

Under the recently implemented Access Canada program, hotels in British Columbia are graded with one of four rating levels that address the needs of people with minor to severe disabilities. Call ahead to ensure your requirements can be met.